I used to think that this was mainly for bagged tea but I have seen loose teas this way. I used to go to a cafe, bookstore, and tea store in college that sold Assam that was not CTC but it was cut and more coarse.

Hi there! CTC was invented for black teas in order to lessen production times and costs. CTC is produced at a high volume, has faster oxidation, and has a more consistent taste than tea that is produced in the orthodox method. However, CTC tea cannot produce the same aromas and varied flavors that orthodox teas can. It really comes down to the individual buyer and if they want their tea to be consistent every time (CTC) or if they are looking for their tea to vary a bit (orthodox). Assam tea can be produced by both methods. Hope this helps!